Blatrip operators detained over refunds

Two operators of Blatrip have been detained for suspected fraud after the unlicensed tour operator failed to refund hundreds of consumers.

The Shanghai Consumer Council had received more than 1,000 complaints about Blatrip, which is known for providing flight and hotel packages at lower prices than other outlets. But it requires customers to pay first before their trips are confirmed.

Many customers complained that their bookings were “unsuccessful” far too often. The cheated customers went to the office of Blatrip, seeking a refund, but found the office empty.

Blatrip claimed its bank account had been frozen because of investigation and could not ensure trips to customers who had already paid for them.

A tourist Iris Liu had over 10,000 yuan (US$1,591) left in her account.